Kim Jong Un Threatens to ‘Completely Destroy’ South Korea

The statement, reported by the state news agency KCNA on Thursday, February 26, 2026, came as Kim concluded the 9th Congress of the Workers' Party of Korea in Pyongyang. During this rare political gathering, Kim formally designated South Korea as a "permanent adversary" and the "most hostile enemy," explicitly ruling out any possibility of future dialogue or reunification with Seoul.

As part of a new five-year military modernization plan (2026–2030), Kim outlined several aggressive strategic goals. He called for the rapid expansion of North Korea's nuclear arsenal, specifically focusing on tactical nuclear weapons such as 600mm rocket launchers and short-range missiles designed for "high-precision" strikes on South Korean targets. Furthermore, he announced plans to develop submarine-launched intercontinental ballistic missiles (SLBMs) and nuclear-powered submarines to enhance the country's long-range striking capability. Kim asserted that North Korea’s status as a "nuclear weapons state" is now permanent and serves as the ultimate guarantee of its national security.

Despite his hostile rhetoric toward Seoul, Kim signaled a calculated openness toward the United States. He stated that North Korea could "get along well" with Washington, provided that the U.S. abandons its "hostile policies" and recognizes North Korea’s nuclear status. This move is seen by analysts as an attempt to bypass South Korea and negotiate directly with the Trump administration for sanctions relief and the cessation of joint military exercises. In response, South Korea’s Unification Ministry expressed deep regret, describing the North's hostile framework as a provocative threat to regional stability.